Verstappen 'a cut above everyone' in 2021 for Alonso

When it comes to a high-tension final against a multiple world champion, Fernando Alonso is pretty well placed to know what's going on.

The pilot Alpine has experienced everything in his 20-year career: the joy of a second title acquired during the 2 final against the great Michael Schumacher (Ferrari) with Renault, but also (and above all) the cruel defeats of 2007, 2010, and 2012.

Asked about the outcome of the 2021 championship, Alonso did not hide his appreciation of the work accomplished by Max Verstappen face Lewis Hamilton, including the confrontation with the Iberian at McLaren in 2007 immediately passed into posterity (even if it was Kimi Räikkönen and Ferrari who pulled the chestnuts out of the fire in the end).

« It will depend a little on the car, Mercedes has shown itself to be efficient in the last races and remains on several consecutive victories but Max drives – in my eyes – a cut above everyone, commented Alonso from Yas Marina. We were able to see his qualifying round in Jeddah. Before he hit the wall at the last corner, the performance came from Max, not the Red Bull.

That's my opinion. Mercedes deserves the Manufacturers' title because the car is superior and Max, if we take the whole season, has the advantage over everyone.

I don't support Max but I think he deserves the title. Everyone will have their opinion but he takes this Red Bull to another level. (Hamilton and Verstappen) do not need advice, they are very well prepared and determined. Both are great professionals, and make no mistakes while driving at the limit. It’s very pleasant to observe their duel from the outside ».

Earlier in the season, Alonso said it was more difficult for someone like Verstappen to challenge for the title in a world as English-speaking and British as the F1.

Russell supports his future teammate

On the other side of the barrier, Mercedes and its star driver have some support, including his future teammate of course.

« I would like to see Lewis win the title, replied George Russell (Williams) when asked who he was supporting this Sunday. What he has accomplished, particularly in the last few races, is nothing short of exceptional. To find yourself on the brink of the title when Red Bull had a truly superior car at the start of the season is quite remarkable.

Winning 3 of the first 4 races while Red Bull was super competitive too. Max also had an exceptional season. Both deserve the title, I just hope the fight is fair. May the best win ».

Russell is not the only pro-Mercedes in the field. Esteban Ocon, who was a reservist for Étoile in 2019 and remains managed by the German manufacturer, “ would rather see a Mercedes win " him too.

But the Norman, winner in Budapest this season and 4th in the last Saudi Arabian GP after losing the podium on the line, also keeps in the back of his mind the idea that a clash between the two candidates for the title would allow other pilots to benefit from it…